25 jobs to be created as Asda Bloxwich expands

Asda in Bloxwich is looking to create a home shopping service from the store which has been open more than 40 years.

Dozens of part-time roles could be made available under the proposals, which have lead to complaints from nearby residents.

A petition with 26 signatures has been collected by people from flats in Woodall House amid fears of extra noise, parking problems and disturbance caused by deliveries.

The superstore has put forward a scheme for refurbishment work to create a Home Shopping Pod, external freezer and erection of two canopies.

A previous application was rejected by the council after failing to show how there would be no detrimental impact on highway safety.

But a new report to members of Walsall Council's planning committee from transportation officers says there will be a reduction in traffic movements.

The two van service could cater for up to 120 orders a day, which would reduce the number of other vehicle trips to Asda by 240.

The plans relate to the storage yard area at the Woodall Street site and councillors are being recommended to give approval on Thursday.

Head of planning David Elsworthy says: "This application proposes the refurbishment and conversion of the existing single storey flat roofed building at the southern end of the service yard to form a Home Shopping Pod, together with the provision of a new external freezer and chiller and erection of two canopies in order to initiate a home shopping service from the store.

"The scheme would operate with the use of two vans. The use would eventually result in up to 25 additional part time staff being employed, depending on the take up of the service.

"It is proposed that the vans would start loading from 7am and the last van would be 10pm. The store has been in situ for over 40 years and has no planning restrictions to either its opening hours or delivery times.

He adds: "A transport statement has now been submitted and concludes based on other Asda stores that operate a home delivery service that the proposals would ultimately result in an overall reduction in traffic movements to the store.

"The home delivery service would eventually reduce the number of customers to the store through those that change their shopping habit by having goods delivered to their home.

"Whilst residents indicate that unlawful parking of delivery vehicles takes place on a regular basis parking enforcement have confirmed that this issue has not been previously raised with them and they are unaware of any notices issued to any of the delivery vehicles."

It comes after it emerged last week that a click and collect service has been launched at Asda in Darlaston which has created seven new jobs.